DPR Commission XIII: Human Rights Bill Must Not Compromise Komnas HAM Independence

The independence of Komnas HAM must be preserved and free from power interference to enable it to carry out its duties properly.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission XIII Andreas Hugo Pareira stated that the draft law amending Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights must not compromise the independence of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM).

He said concerns raised by Komnas HAM Chair Anis Hidayah regarding potential weakening of the commission in the draft bill must be addressed to prevent it from happening. Komnas HAM must remain free from interference, he added.

“The independence of Komnas HAM must be preserved and free from power interference to enable it to carry out its duties properly,” Andreas said in Jakarta on Thursday.

So far, the draft Human Rights Bill has not yet been submitted to DPR Commission XIII, which oversees human rights matters. He noted that the bill is already listed in the National Legislative Programme (Prolegnas), initiated by the government.

“It is likely still under government review, with inter-ministerial discussions taking place within the government,” he said.

Previously, Komnas HAM has called for amendments to Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights to strengthen the mandate and effectiveness of the national human rights institution in protecting and enforcing human rights.

In its critical remarks, Komnas HAM highlighted several provisions in the draft bill requiring improvement, including the research and human rights education functions, which are crucial in preventing violations.

“This removal would clearly weaken Komnas HAM’s ability to monitor the state and foster critical awareness among government officials,” Anis said on Tuesday (26 May).